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Abstract
This pilot pre- and post-test study sought to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of horticulture therapy and the perceived meaning and outcome on well being of a structured gardening intervention on two groups of elders in two culturally diverse settings. The total sample of 24 volunteers (age range 63-90) participated in a three month gardening project. The personal meaning framework and the instrumentation developed based on that framework was utilized (Reker, Peacock, & Wong, 1987; Reker & Wong, 1988, 1984). Paired t-tests demonstrated a significant improvement in psychological well being (p < .000). Content analysis of a semi-structured interview elicited the meaning of gardening. Themes that emerged included Legacy of Gardening, Gardening as Spiritual Healing and Therapy, and Remembering a Favorite Tree. The results of this study suggest that the psychological and spiritual benefits of gardening for older adults transcend socioeconomic, educational and cultural boundaries and is a cost-effective therapeutic option.
